The Emergency Response Team

In an ongoing effort to improve safety across the campgrounds, the camp has installed several security cameras in recent years. These cameras serve as a visible deterrent to potential wrongdoers and provide valuable support in various situations—such as during off-season cabin break-ins, locating a lost child during camp sessions, and much more.

Additional safety improvements over the years include increased on-site security personnel, gated access points at the camp entrances, and clearly marked building name signs to assist emergency responders in quickly identifying specific locations. Please note that the entrance gates are intentionally colored red and green. This color-coding is designed to aid in directing emergency services—should the need arise—by allowing callers or Emergency Response Team (ERT) members to specify the correct entry point. Ideally, someone should meet first responders at the designated gate to guide them to the emergency location.

Every other year members of the ERT conduct a walkthrough of the campgrounds in partnership with the Knox County Sheriff's Department. This initiative allowed deputies to become more familiar with the camp layout and our emergency response protocols. In previous walkthroughs the attending officers expressed strong support for our efforts and shared valuable resources to help guide our team in future decisions. Additionally, the Sheriff's Department has committed to performing unannounced safety patrols throughout the camp session to further ensure a secure environment.

If you see a deputy walking the grounds or patrolling in a marked vehicle, please do not be alarmed—it does not indicate an active incident. Their presence is simply a proactive measure for your protection. We encourage you to engage with them; they are here to support our community.

As part of our ongoing commitment to being good stewards of the health and safety of everyone at Camp Sychar, several important measures have been put in place to help prevent and respond to medical emergencies.

In addition to having a dedicated RN to serve as our camp nurse, three Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) have been installed throughout the camp to help ensure a swift response in the event of a cardiac arrest emergency. They are located in the following areas:

• Just outside the cafeteria doors.

• Inside the main tabernacle, to the left of the stage.

• On the exterior wall of the nurse’s cottage.

We encourage you to take a moment upon arrival to familiarize yourself with the locations of these life-saving devices. In an emergency, knowing the nearest AED location can make a critical difference. These life-saving devices can be used anywhere on the grounds and should be used alongside immediate activation of 911 and CPR. We are reminded in moments like these that God can work through the hands of His people to preserve life.

In addition, the Emergency Response Team (ERT) has been blessed to acquire four CitizenAid bags. These are specifically designed to provide critical first aid in the event of a mass casualty situation, such as, Lord forbid, an active shooter incident. Each bag contains 6 individual trauma kits equipped with essential items like tourniquets, gauze dressings, medical gloves, and other emergency supplies.

The CitizenAid bags will be placed in the following locations:

• One in the cafeteria immediately to your right as you walk in.

• Two in the main tabernacle, on either side of the sound booth

• One in the youth tabernacle, to the right of the stage

Please know that these resources are here for you—not just for the ERT. In times of crisis, we are called to be the hands and feet of Christ, ready to serve and protect one another. Let us pray we never need to use them, but take comfort knowing that they are in place out of love and preparation.

As we continue to seek God’s guidance in creating a safe and welcoming environment, one of the final areas the Emergency Response Team (ERT) focuses on is fire prevention. Given the age of many of our buildings and their close proximity to one another, Camp Sychar carries an increased risk of fire. This is not shared to cause fear, but to encourage everyone to be vigilant and wise stewards of the blessings God has entrusted to us.

Please ensure that each cabin has at least one working smoke detector. Avoid using extension cords, and instead use only certified power strips or surge protectors. If your cabin already has a smoke detector, we ask that you replace the batteries at the start of each camp and confirm it is in good working order. If you are in need of a smoke detector, please see Brennan Woods at any time during camp—we are here to help.

Every other year, in preparation for camp, ERT members also perform walk-throughs of every building and the grounds with crews from the Mount Vernon Fire Department (MVFD), who serve as both our fire protection and EMS providers. These walkthroughs help first responders become familiar with the camp’s layout so that, should an emergency arise, they can respond swiftly and safely. Maps of our buildings and the Emergency Response Plan that has been developed are also shared with them.

Just as we partnered with the Knox County Sheriff’s Department, MVFD is invited to return during the camp meeting. So if you see their presence on the grounds, please know they are welcome guests—perhaps visiting, checking in, or simply sharing fellowship.

As part of our preparations for camp each year, all smoke detectors in camp-operated buildings are tested, batteries are replaced, and additional detectors are installed where needed. Every fire extinguisher is professionally inspected, and new units are placed in strategic areas to enhance safety for all. These steps are part of our faithful stewardship—caring for the safety of everyone here as we gather to grow in Christ.

1. If You See Something, Say Something.

If you notice anything suspicious or something that just doesn’t seem right, please don’t hesitate to speak up. Notify a member of the Emergency Response Team (ERT) or a board member and they can direct you to an ERT member.

2. Know Your Surroundings.

If you're staying in buildings such as the hotels or Weatherwax, take a few moments to familiarize yourself with your surroundings—including nearby exits and fire extinguisher locations. Families with children are especially encouraged to walk through the building together and create a simple exit plan in case of an emergency.

3. In Case of Emergency -

If you ever need to call 911, and it is safe to do so, please also alert a member of the ERT. While the Mount Vernon Fire Department and the Sheriff’s Office are familiar with our camp’s Emergency Response Plan, that plan is most effective when the ERT is aware and actively involved in the situation.

Let’s continue to look out for one another, acting with wisdom, courage, and care—trusting God to guide and protect us as we serve and gather in His name.